This morning Trevor and I decided to do a practice quarantine for the weekend. I have not been feeling well since yesterday evening. I haven’t registered a fever or any respiratory symptoms, but my energy is low. I feel a fatigue that is similar to how I usually feel during an average cold, but without any of the other cold symptoms.
A few weeks back Trevor and I had a discussion about what we would do if one of us started to feel sick. I was initially opposed to us quarantining in separate parts of the house, but he felt it would be feasible and important to minimize our contact with each other. After talking through the logistics I agreed that it would be worth a try.
So we are doing a trial run this weekend. I have moved myself and all of my favorite things (books, markers, paints, pets) plus some unnecessary items (pants, bras) into the guest bedroom. We are using separate bathrooms and Trevor is delivering meals outside my door. We can still chat and we hope to make it work to watch some shows together later, but so far we are just happily going about our usual introverted weekend activities.
At the end of the weekend we will decide whether to extend the quarantine and whether Trevor can safely go back to work. This decision will depend on how my symptoms progress and on professional medical advice.
Honestly I’m loving the experience so far. It feels like I’m on some kind of retreat. The view through the windows is beautiful and I get plenty of sunlight and fresh air. Someone else is cooking for me. It’s quiet and peaceful. Pretty sure a lot of moms I know would envy the situation.
I am interested to see how the solitude will affect me over time if I end up extending the quarantine past the weekend. I feel grateful to have a caring partner to look after my basic needs.
Angie Gustafson 